Storm brings mix of freezing rain, snow and sleet

The winter that doesn’t quit coated area roads, sidewalks, trees and power lines with a mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain on Monday resulting in numerous accidents and occasional power outages.

Warmer temperatures are in the forecast the remainder of the week.

Law enforcement agencies spent another day responding to crashes and stranded drivers. Springfield police had responded to more than a dozen accidents by early afternoon. There were reports of flooded roads. Crews had to clear water off the roadway near Archer Elevator Road and Greenbriar Drive.

The Springfield Mass Transit District suspended Monday service for several hours as a result of the hazardous conditions. Service resumed on snow routes at mid-afternoon and managing director Frank Squires said buses would run regular routes Tuesday.

Springfield schools opened but children who remained home were allowed excused absences.

City Water, Light and Power, and Ameren, reported power outages in portions of Springfield and Sangamon County. The worst of the outages, according to Ameren, were in Macoupin and Jersey counties, where several hundred homes were without power at mid-day.

Flight delays and cancellations were reported at airports across the state, including Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport in Springfield. Lincoln Land Community College cancelled afternoon and evening classes.

Illinois Department of Transportation officials described roads in most of the state as “extremely slick and dangerous.” There were numerous reports of vehicles in ditches.

The National Weather Service at Lincoln forecast 1 to 3 inches of snow and ice, while up to seven inches of snow was expected in northern Illinois.

A break is forecast Tuesday in what already has become one of the coldest, snowiest winters on record in central Illinois. Highs Tuesday are expected in the mid-40s, according to the National Weather Service, and in the mid-50s on Thursday.

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.

Information

Original content available for non-commercial use under a Creative Commons license, except where noted.
The State Journal-Register ~ Street address: One Copley Plaza (corner of Ninth Street and Capitol Avenue), Springfield, ILMailing address: The State Journal-Register, P.O. Box 219, Springfield, IL 62705-0219 ~ Privacy Policy ~ Terms Of Service